Karnataka: Beer companies apprehensive about prohibtion of third shift operations

Beer companies are pushing back against a recent government notice to close down third shift operations. The rationale for the order is the apparent lack of excise officers and staff across Karnataka during the third shift hours. The notice was sent to the companies on December 4th. “We sincerely urge policymakers in the State to reconsider the decision to cancel the third-shift operation in the brewery. This decision will significantly impact the State’s thriving beer industry, jeopardising employment and causing a shortage of beer during the peak demand period around Christmas, New Year, and beyond which is the peak season for beer sales,” a representative of a top beer company expressed. 

There is a fear that this move might result in a shift to other alcoholic options which are of stronger potency. Manufacturers in this domain have not reported to have received any similar notice from the government. 3.8 million hectolitres of beer is produced in Karnataka annually. This amounts to 13 percent of the total beer consumption in the country. There are seven major breweries operating across the state of Karnataka. Major beer brands such as United Breweries, AB InBev, Bira and Carlsberg have units established in the state.